The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," is predominantly located in South America. This vast biome spans over 5.5 million square kilometers, making it the largest tropical rainforest on the planet. It covers parts of several countries, with the majority of its area found within Brazil, while also stretching into Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. The Amazon is not just famous for its size; it is also one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
Home to more than 390 billion individual trees belonging to around 16,000 species, the Amazon rainforest is essential for global ecology. The dense tree canopy houses countless species of wildlife, many of which are not found anywhere else on Earth. The Amazon River, which is the second-longest river in the world, flows through this rainforest, providing vital water resources to the diverse array of life.
The rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide, thus mitigating climate change. Furthermore, it produces about 20% of the world’s oxygen, earning it the title of "the lungs of the Earth." The Amazon also supports numerous indigenous communities that have lived in harmony with this ecosystem for thousands of years. These communities rely on the forest for their livelihoods, utilizing its resources sustainably.
Despite its significance, the Amazon rainforest faces severe threats from deforestation, mining, agriculture, and climate change. The ongoing destruction of this vital habitat not only endangers countless species but also contributes to global warming and the loss of biodiversity. Conservation efforts are critical to preserving the Amazon, and many organizations are actively working to safeguard its future. The health of the Amazon rainforest is thus vital not only for the countries of South America but for the planet as a whole.